"The easiest way to put it," Shero said, "when I brought Tom Fitzgerald in as assistant general manager, some of the duties overall would change a bit. We talked about it a lot, Chris and I, and we came to the decision that he would take a step back, which I respect."

Lou Lamoriello, who had remained as team president after Shero's arrival, was hired July 23 as Toronto Maple Leafs general manager. Chris Lamoriello respectfully declined comment to Tom Gulitti of the Bergen Record other than to indicate that he had not spoken to any other teams about employment.

Shero has not detailed Fitzpatrick's role with the A-Devils.

"In terms of any structure in Albany, by the end of next week we'll have that in place," Shero said. "Whoever's given that position, it's not a one-man show in terms of dealing with the coaches and the players and the training staff. It's a combination of hockey personnel."

Training camp opens for the Devils' rookies on Thursday. After physicals, the players will head to Buffalo for four days of games against the Sabres and Boston Bruins.

Veterans are due in camp Thursday, Sept. 17, and the first practice is the following day.